Actor Bill Paxton has died due to complications from surgery, a family representative told The Huffington Post on Sunday. He was 61.
“It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery,” the rep said. “A loving husband and father, Bill began his career in Hollywood working on films in the art department and went on to have an illustrious career spanning four decades as a beloved and prolific actor and filmmaker. Bill’s passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable.”
Paxton, who was born in Texas in 1955, began working in the movie industry in the 1970s. He snagged a memorable role in “Aliens” (1986) and went on to play major characters in movies including “Apollo 13” (1995) and “Titanic” (1997). More recently, he starred in the acclaimed HBO series “Big Love” (2006-2011) as a Mormon who practices polygamy in Utah.
His long career netted numerous award nominations and wins, including a Saturn Award for “Aliens,” a Screen Actors Guild Award for “Apollo 13” and an Emmy for his role in the 2012 TV miniseries “Hatfields & McCoys.”
After the news of Paxton’s death broke, his former colleagues and other stars wrote on social media that they remember him as a kind, warm and talented actor.
Paxton is survived by his two children and his second wife, according to TMZ.
Paxton had expressed excitement earlier this month over his son, 22-year-old James, joining him in an episode of his CBS cop drama “Training Day.”
“I was thrilled to have my son guest-star on the eighth episode of Training Day,” he told People.
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